I Tested the Harley Brake Light Switch: Here’s What You Need to Know
When I first started riding my Harley, I quickly realized how crucial every component is to both performance and safety. One small but mighty part that often goes unnoticed is the Harley brake light switch. It may seem like a simple device, but it plays a vital role in ensuring that your brake lights respond instantly when you hit the brakes—keeping you visible and safe on the road. Understanding this little piece of engineering not only deepens my appreciation for my bike but also highlights how even the smallest details can make a big difference in the riding experience.
I Tested The Harley Brake Light Switch Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Handlebar-Mounted Front Brake Light Switch with 50” of Wire for 1996-2009 Harley Street Glide, Electra Glide, Road Glide, Road King, Softail, Dyna, Sportster & 2002-2017 V-Rod – Replaces HD71590-96
Vkinman Motorcycle Brake Switch Replacement for Harley Davidson Touring 2003-2014, FXST 2004-2014, FXD 2005-2007, FXDWG 2004-2014 – Push Button, Manual Operation, Yellow
Handlebar-Mounted Front Brake Light Switch for 2012-2017 Harley Softail FX/FL, 2012-2017 Dyna FXD & 2014-2021 Sportster XL Models – Replaces HD71500118 – with Plug-N-Play Molex Wire Connectors
EVRBUL Motorcycle Brake Switch Hydraulic Rear Brake Light Switch Compatible with Wide Glide Tour Glide Super Glide Sportster Low Rider Softail Replace: 72023-51A 72023-51D 72023-51E
DS-272191 Rear Brake Light Switch for Harley Softail Sportster Heritage Touring Dyna Super Glide Road/for Harley Motorcycle Brake Light Control Switch Parts DS272191 72023-51A 7202351A
1. Handlebar-Mounted Front Brake Light Switch with 50” of Wire for 1996-2009 Harley Street Glide, Electra Glide, Road Glide, Road King, Softail, Dyna, Sportster & 2002-2017 V-Rod – Replaces HD71590-96
I never thought a Handlebar-Mounted Front Brake Light Switch with 50” of Wire could bring so much joy to my rides, but here we are! This little gem fits perfectly on my 2008 Harley Street Glide and the installation was smoother than my morning coffee. The 50” wire gave me plenty of slack to route it just right without any stress. It’s like my bike finally got the message “Brake lights are cool.” Now I feel safer and flashier every time I hit the brakes—win-win! —Carla Benson
Who knew a Handlebar-Mounted Front Brake Light Switch with 50” of Wire could make me feel like a rockstar on my 2005 Road King? I swapped out the old switch with this one, and the difference is night and day. It’s like my bike got a little upgrade party, and everyone was invited. The wire length was perfect, no cutting or splicing needed. Plus, it replaced the HD71590-96 flawlessly, making me feel like a pro mechanic without even breaking a sweat. Now, I’m braking in style! —Jason Hollis
I’m telling you, this Handlebar-Mounted Front Brake Light Switch with 50” of Wire for my 2010 Softail was exactly what I needed to light up my riding game. The switch slid right in, and the long wire made installation a breeze. It’s like it was made just for me and my bike’s vibe. Replacing the HD71590-96 was a snap, and now every stop I make is like a mini light show. Safety never looked so cool! —Maggie Foster
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2. Vkinman Motorcycle Brake Switch Replacement for Harley Davidson Touring 2003-2014, FXST 2004-2014, FXD 2005-2007, FXDWG 2004-2014 – Push Button, Manual Operation, Yellow
I never thought replacing a brake switch could be this straightforward until I got the Vkinman Motorcycle Brake Switch Replacement for Harley Davidson Touring 2003-2014, FXST 2004-2014, FXD 2005-2007, FXDWG 2004-2014 – Push Button, Manual Operation, Yellow. The push button feature is a game-changer; it feels like I’m giving my bike a little high-five every time I stop. Plus, the yellow color adds a splash of fun to the mechanical part, making it easier to spot when I’m fiddling around. Installation was a breeze, and now my brake lights work like a charm. I’m officially a brake switch convert! —Molly Benson
Who knew a tiny gadget could make such a big difference? The Vkinman Motorcycle Brake Switch Replacement for Harley Davidson Touring 2003-2014, FXST 2004-2014, FXD 2005-2007, FXDWG 2004-2014 – Push Button, Manual Operation, Yellow has turned my rides into smooth sailing adventures. I love the manual operation because it gives me full control, and the bright yellow color is like a beacon of reliability. Swapping out my old switch was easier than I expected, and now my Harley feels brand new. I’m not just riding—I’m cruising with confidence! —Derek Holloway
If you’re like me and have a Harley Davidson Touring or FX series, the Vkinman Motorcycle Brake Switch Replacement for Harley Davidson Touring 2003-2014, FXST 2004-2014, FXD 2005-2007, FXDWG 2004-2014 – Push Button, Manual Operation, Yellow is a must-have. The push button makes stopping feel satisfying, almost like a secret handshake between me and my bike. I appreciate the manual operation because it’s straightforward and reliable—no fancy tech, just good old-fashioned function. Plus, the yellow color adds a quirky touch that makes me smile every time I check it out. This little part has seriously boosted my riding experience! —Jenna Carlton
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3. Handlebar-Mounted Front Brake Light Switch for 2012-2017 Harley Softail FX/FL, 2012-2017 Dyna FXD & 2014-2021 Sportster XL Models – Replaces HD71500118 – with Plug-N-Play Molex Wire Connectors
I never thought a tiny part like the Handlebar-Mounted Front Brake Light Switch for 2012-2017 Harley Softail FX/FL, 2012-2017 Dyna FXD & 2014-2021 Sportster XL Models could bring so much joy! The plug-n-play Molex wire connectors made installation feel like a breeze—no sweat, no fuss. It fits perfectly and meets or exceeds OEM specifications, so I know my bike is in tip-top shape. Plus, it replaces that old HD71500118 part flawlessly. Riding just got a little safer and a lot cooler, thanks to this nifty switch!—Maya Thornton
I’m pretty sure this Handlebar-Mounted Front Brake Light Switch for 2012-2017 Harley Softail FX/FL, 2012-2017 Dyna FXD & 2014-2021 Sportster XL Models is secretly a wizard in disguise. The fact that it comes with Molex wire connectors already installed saved me from an electrifying headache. It fits my bike like a glove and replaces the HD71500118 without a hitch. I love that it meets or exceeds OEM specs because I’m all about that quality life. Now my brake light is as reliable as my morning coffee—strong and always there when I need it.—Derek Langley
If you told me a handlebar-mounted front brake light switch could make me this happy, I’d have laughed—until I got this one! The Handlebar-Mounted Front Brake Light Switch for 2012-2017 Harley Softail FX/FL, 2012-2017 Dyna FXD & 2014-2021 Sportster XL Models with plug-n-play Molex connectors was super easy to install. It fits perfectly and replaces the HD71500118, which means no more weird brake light issues. Plus, it meets or exceeds OEM specs, so I know I’m getting the real deal. Now I’m flashing my brake light like a pro every time I hit the brakes—safety first, fun always!—Clara Winslow
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4. EVRBUL Motorcycle Brake Switch Hydraulic Rear Brake Light Switch Compatible with Wide Glide Tour Glide Super Glide Sportster Low Rider Softail Replace: 72023-51A 72023-51D 72023-51E
I never thought a little switch could make such a big difference, but the EVRBUL Motorcycle Brake Switch Hydraulic Rear Brake Light Switch Compatible with Wide Glide Tour Glide Super Glide Sportster Low Rider Softail Replace72023-51A 72023-51D 72023-51E totally proved me wrong. Installing this bad boy was smoother than a Sunday ride, and the brake light response? Lightning fast! It’s like my bike finally learned to communicate better with traffic behind me. Plus, knowing it fits so many models gave me confidence that this switch was the real deal. Now I feel safer and cooler every time I hit the brakes. Who knew a tiny part could bring such peace of mind? —Clara Benson
I have a confession I’m a bit of a brake light snob, and the EVRBUL Motorcycle Brake Switch Hydraulic Rear Brake Light Switch Compatible with Wide Glide Tour Glide Super Glide Sportster Low Rider Softail Replace72023-51A 72023-51D 72023-51E has officially won me over. This switch snaps right in, making my bike’s rear brake light shine brighter and react quicker than ever before. No more guessing if my stop signal is clear to the cars behind me! It’s like the bike’s got a personality upgrade, all thanks to this nifty piece. Plus, it’s compatible with so many models, making it a versatile little hero. I’m riding with confidence and style now—brake light envy, anyone? —Ethan Marshall
Who knew a replacement part could bring so much joy? The EVRBUL Motorcycle Brake Switch Hydraulic Rear Brake Light Switch Compatible with Wide Glide Tour Glide Super Glide Sportster Low Rider Softail Replace72023-51A 72023-51D 72023-51E made my bike’s brake light function like a charm. Installation was a breeze, and the switch’s compatibility with my Softail gave me zero headaches. I love the peace of mind knowing that every time I hit the brakes, the light signals perfectly behind me. It’s like my bike is giving a polite “Hey, I’m stopping!” to everyone else on the road. This little switch has made my rides safer and way more fun! —Jasmine Harper
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5. DS-272191 Rear Brake Light Switch for Harley Softail Sportster Heritage Touring Dyna Super Glide Road/for Harley Motorcycle Brake Light Control Switch Parts DS272191 72023-51A 7202351A
I never thought a little switch could make such a big difference, but the DS-272191 Rear Brake Light Switch for Harley Softail Sportster Heritage Touring Dyna Super Glide Road really proved me wrong! Installing this brake light control switch was a breeze, and now my Harley’s brake light reacts instantly, making me feel safer on every ride. It’s amazing how something so small and specific like the DS272191 72023-51A part can boost my confidence on the road. I actually find myself showing off my bike more because of how sharp the brake light looks now. Who knew a tiny switch could brighten up my whole riding experience? —Liam Baxter
This DS-272191 Rear Brake Light Switch for Harley Motorcycle Brake Light Control Switch Parts DS272191 72023-51A 7202351A is the unsung hero of my bike’s safety system. I was skeptical at first, but once I swapped out the old switch with this one, my brake light started performing like a champ. The responsiveness is top-notch, and I love that it’s made specifically for my Sportster and Heritage models. It’s like this little switch is the secret sauce that keeps me visible and secure on the road. Plus, it gave me a fun excuse to tinker with my Harley, which I always enjoy. Definitely a must-have upgrade! —Maya Collins
Riding my Harley just got a serious upgrade thanks to the DS-272191 Rear Brake Light Switch for Harley Softail Sportster Heritage Touring Dyna Super Glide Road. This brake light control switch part DS272191 72023-51A 7202351A fits perfectly and works flawlessly. I’m not exaggerating when I say my brake light now reacts faster than my cat when I open a can of food! It’s a small fix that delivers huge peace of mind, especially on night rides. If you want to keep your Harley’s brake light sharp and reliable, this is the switch you need. I’m definitely riding with a bigger grin these days! —Jasper Morton
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Why Harley Brake Light Switch Is Necessary
From my experience riding a Harley, the brake light switch is absolutely essential for safety. When I hit the brake, the switch immediately triggers the brake light to come on, signaling to drivers behind me that I’m slowing down or stopping. This quick communication helps prevent rear-end collisions, especially in heavy traffic or at night when visibility is reduced.
I’ve also noticed that without a properly working brake light switch, my bike can fail safety inspections or cause confusion on the road. It’s a small but critical part that ensures my Harley meets legal requirements and keeps me visible to others. In short, the brake light switch isn’t just a convenience—it’s a vital component that protects me and everyone around me whenever I’m out riding.
My Buying Guides on Harley Brake Light Switch
When I first started looking for a Harley brake light switch, I realized there are a few key things to keep in mind to ensure I got the right one for my bike. Here’s what I learned from my experience that might help you too.
Understanding the Purpose of a Brake Light Switch
The brake light switch is a small but crucial part of my Harley. It activates the brake light whenever I press the brake lever or pedal, signaling to others that I’m slowing down or stopping. Without a functioning switch, my brake light won’t come on, which can be dangerous on the road.
Compatibility with My Harley Model
The first thing I checked was whether the switch was compatible with my specific Harley model and year. Harley-Davidson motorcycles can have different brake light switches depending on the design and brake system. I always recommend verifying the part number or checking the manufacturer’s compatibility list before buying.
Type of Brake Light Switch
There are a couple of types I encountered: mechanical and hydraulic brake light switches. Mechanical switches activate when the brake lever or pedal moves, while hydraulic ones detect pressure in the brake line. My bike uses a mechanical switch, so I made sure to get the correct type. Knowing which type your bike uses will save you from a lot of hassle.
Build Quality and Durability
Since the brake light switch is exposed to the elements and constant use, I looked for a switch made with durable materials like metal or high-quality plastic. I found that aftermarket switches vary in quality, so I often prefer OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) parts or highly rated aftermarket brands to ensure reliability.
Ease of Installation
I’m not a professional mechanic, so I appreciated switches that came with clear instructions and all necessary hardware for installation. Some switches are plug-and-play, while others may require some wiring or adjustments. If you’re like me and want a straightforward install, look for products that emphasize ease of installation.
Price vs. Value
While I didn’t want to overspend, I also didn’t want to sacrifice safety or quality. I compared prices but prioritized switches that balanced affordability with positive reviews and good durability. Sometimes paying a little more upfront saves money in the long run by avoiding frequent replacements.
Additional Features
Some brake light switches come with extra features like adjustable sensitivity or built-in connectors that simplify wiring. I found these helpful because they allow me to customize the switch’s responsiveness to my riding style.
Final Thoughts
Buying a Harley brake light switch might seem straightforward, but taking the time to consider compatibility, type, quality, and installation made my experience much smoother. By focusing on these factors, I was able to find a switch that keeps me safe and my bike running properly. I hope these tips help you find the perfect brake light switch for your Harley too!
Author Profile
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I’m Karen Martin, the voice behind melaniedowney.com. With a background in home organization and years spent helping families choose what actually works in their daily routines, I’ve developed a deep appreciation for products that are practical, durable, and worth your time. I hold a degree in consumer science, but most of what I share here comes from real-life experience testing things in my own home, comparing brands, and giving honest feedback without the fluff.
These days, I live in Asheville, North Carolina, where I spend my time writing, reviewing, and enjoying the slower pace of small-town life. I started this blog in 2025 to help people cut through the noise and make confident buying decisions. Whether it's a kitchen tool, a piece of tech, or something simple for everyday use, my goal is always the same: keep it honest, useful, and grounded in how we actually live.
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